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Andrew Dahl
age 12 has been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, which involves anxiety and depression. He also is victim to ADHD and learning disabilities. In 1994 and 1995 Andrew was abused physically and mentally. He spent most of his time 1995 in a fetal position in the corner of the room.
The family of Andrew heard about Horses for Healing through the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, and since other types of therapy and treatment were not producing more than just minimal improvement they took a chance with Hippo therapy. The goal for Horses for Healing is to heal a wounded heart, mind, and spirit through recreational horseback riding. Andrew loves to be around the horses despite some physical limitations. Over the years in the program Andrew’s focus, confidence, self-expression, and control have steadily improved. He now listens better, is more independent in his daily activities with his newfound confidence.
Debbie Dahl, Andrew’s mother says “I knew in my heart that there had to be a key that would unlock the pain and hurt of the past and help my son focus on the future and have hope. My assessment of the program (Horses for Healing) is a God sent answer to the prayer that has given new hope for the future of my son.”
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Claudia Trnka
age 59 has been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She has looked for some sort of therapy that would enhance her physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well being while doing something she loves.
Claudia heard about Horses for Healing from a friend in an MS group and, though she had not ridden in 20 years, she couldn’t wait to get started. The instructor assessed her posture and found she was leaning to the right to compensate for weakness on the left side. Corrections brought the spine into alignment and relieved some lower back pain. During the riding sessions the instructor, Judy Gerhard, gave Claudia patterns to ride which challenged and stimulated memory, concentration and focus. Through stretches, exercises, and riding tasks physical and mental progress was facilitated. Claudia has been with Horses for Healing since June of 2000. She finds her spirit uplifted every time she arrives at the facility by the smiling faces of the volunteers waiting for her with her stead Amtal. The guidance of her instructor has shown her that she and her ride can accomplish new things all the time. “I feel so blessed to be carried around the ground by this beautiful, intelligent, affectionate, and responsive animal” Claudia says.
Claudia’s assessment of the program is; “I love this program. It supports me in so many ways. There aren’t words to adequately express my admiration and gratitude for everyone associated with it.”
Claudia wrote as an assignment at Sacramento City College her first experience at Horses for Healing, if you would like to read this great story see our newsletter.
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